The Ranger

Farmers markets grow in tribal areas

Farmers markets on the Wind River Indian Reservation are starting for the summer season.

The markets will be every Thursday night through Oct. 11, weather permitting. They start at 4:30 p.m. and end around 7 p.m. or until merchandise runs out.

The locations will be at the post office parking lot in Fort Washakie, the Blue Sky Hall parking lot in Ethete and the St. Stephen's School bus barn parking lot off 17 Mile Road.

Fort Washakie dates include Aug. 9, Aug. 30, Sept. 20 and Oct. 11.

Ethete dates are July 26, Aug. 16, Sept. 6 and Sept. 27.

St. Stephen's dates are Aug. 2, Aug. 23, Sept. 13, and Oct. 4.

Event sponsors Blue Mountain Associates Inc. and Food Dignity Projects said the purpose of the events is to promote healthy living on the reservation through the consumption of locally grown produce and other agriculturally related products.

The event also provides a place for local vendors to sell their products, organizers said.

For vendors, the fees are $2 per event or $15 for the season. The cost is $30 for out-of-area truck sales.

The organizers encourage preregistration and payment in advance but they do not require them. Vendors must provide their own tables or selling area. To reserve vendor space, call 349-4321.